Russia rally in Reykjavik
Sunday, August 22, 2004
Article summary
Iceland 0-2 Russia Russia are within sight of joining Iceland in the play-offs after a vital win.
Article body
Russia are within sight of a UEFA European Women's Championship play-off place after a vital win against Group 3 rivals Iceland.
Iceland in play-offs
France have already clinched the one automatic place in next summer's tournament, but with play-off berths on offer for the four group runners-up and two best third-placed teams, there was much to play for in Reykjavik. But while Iceland's total of 13 points from their now completed group programme has already secured them entry to the play-offs at the end of this year, Russia needed victory to stay on course.
Final fixtures
The 2-0 win takes Russia to within two points of Iceland, with two matches remaining to pick up the victory that would take them above Iceland. The first of those games is a trip to France on 26 September, with fourth-placed Hungary to visit Selyatino on 3 October. However, if Scotland cannot beat the Czech Republic in Group 4 on 5 September, Russia's points tally would already be sufficient to ensure them a play-off place as one of the two superior third-placed teams.
